Thank You for Shopping: The Golden Age of Minnesota Department Stores [Hardcover]

Throughout the twentieth century, department stores ruled the retail landscapes of downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. More than just shopping centers, stores like Dayton's, Powers, Donaldson's, Young-Quinlan, the Emporium, and the Golden Rule were centers of social life. From the legendary Dayton's Christmas displays to celebrating a special occasion at Schuneman's River Room, the department store was a destination for generations of Minnesotans, within the Twin Cities and beyond.

InThank You for Shopping, author Kristal Leebrick presents the history and stories behind Minnesota's great department stores, offering a lively trip back to the glory days. Abundantly illustrated with vintage photos, postcards, advertisements, and artwork, the book explores the experience of shoppers and employees alike. Readers will revel in the fun, the fashion, and the thrill of discovery these stores provided.

The book also includes a chapter dedicated to the signature dishes—with recipes, menus, and photos—of the stores' esteemed dining establishments. And looking beyond the Twin Cities, Leebrick tells of beloved, locally owned stores in Brainerd (OBrien's), Winona (Choate's), Duluth (Freimuth's), and other Minnesota cities and towns.

Thank You for Shoppingis a nostalgic trip back for anybody who remembers the service, style, and charm of Minnesota's late, great department stores.A wonderful look back at the history of retail in a state that continues to shape its future.Eric Dayton,, founder and CEO of Askov FinlaysonFirst book to give a fuller and more detailed treatment to the nostalgia of Minnesotas department store era. An ideal gift for anyone who grew up during this time, those in their 40s and up.Features history of Daytons, Powers, Donaldsons, Young-Quinlan, the Emporium, and the Golden Rule in the Twin Cities as well as stores in Brainerd (OBriens)lS.